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ALEXANDRIA, Va. - Old Town Alexandria is poised to welcome shoppers for another Small Business Saturday, with special events and more than 50 locally-owned stores participating.
The city will offer free parking at meters all day Saturday for shoppers and host several special events, including a Santa Stroll outside Penny Post and free gift wrapping and live music at the Torpedo Factory Arts Center.
Most of the activities are scheduled to run between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Anna Fitzgerald, owner of The Dog Park, says Small Business Saturday gives store owners a chance to show shoppers what sets them apart from malls and the big chains.
"Tomorrow's just another added day. I know a lot of the other stores in Old Town are doing experiences -- like a lot of the food stores are doing tastings and having chefs come in and people with certain expertise in whatever that particular boutique specializes in, so I highly suggest people coming out and seeing what the small stores are offering," said Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald is offering discounts and free items if shoppers spend $100 or more Saturday. They will also have an adoption event from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
The dozens of other boutiques in Old Town Alexandria along King Street and beyond will be offering bargains as well.